Actor Torn given probation over DUI arrest

The 78-year-old was pulled over by police on 14 December (08) when he was spotted driving along the breakdown lane on a highway in Connecticut.

He failed part of a field sobriety test after giving up halfway, claiming the ground wasn't level enough, and refused to take a breath test, according to state police.

Torn pleaded not guilty to allegations of illegal operation of a motor vehicle while under the influence and failure to drive in the proper lane in January (09), and this week (begs18May09) a Connecticut judge decided he could avoid prison time as long as he completes the alcohol tutorial.

However the Oscar nominee, who suffers from a severe hearing impairment, must retake his driver's test to keep hold of his licence.

Torn's run in with the law in December (08) was his third DUI arrest in the last five years - and it occurred almost two years after he lost his licence and was fined for a similar charge in New York.